This blog is based on Puritan Age and Restoration Age and this task was assigned by Dilip Barad sir.
Puritanism to Restoration
The evolution of English literature from the Puritan era to the Restoration period represents a dramatic shift in themes, styles and societal influences. This transition not only reflects changing political climates but also a transformation in Literary expression. Let's delve into this periods, highlighting key writers and their contributions.
The Puritan Age and The Restoration Age : A Historical Overview
Puritanism, a religious reform moment in the late 16th and 17th centuries that sought to
" purify " the church of England of remnants of the Roman catholic "popery " that the puritans claimed had been retained after the religious settlement reached early in the reign of Queen Elizabeth I . Puritans became noted in the 17th century for a spirit of moral and religious earnestness that informed their wholway of life, and they sought through church reform to make their lifestyle the pattern for the whole nation. Their efforts to transform the nation contributed both to civil war in England and to the founding of colonies in America as working models of the puritan way of life.
The puritan era's primary objective was :
- To faciliate religious freedom
- Full civil liberty
- Removal of practices such as hierarchical leadership, clerical vestments
- To uphold the word of God and the bible
The Puritan Age ( 1620- 1660 )
Historical Context :
The puritan age spans from the early 17th century until the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660. This period was marked by intense religious and political upheaval. The puritans , a group of English Protestants seeking to reform the Church of England, gained significant influence during the reign of James I and Charles I. Their dissatisfaction with the Anglican Church's rituals and hierarchy fueled a broader conflict between monarchy and parliament, leading to the English civil war.
Religious and Political Impact :
The puritans, led by figures like Oliver Cromwell, sought to establish a society based on their religious principles. Their vision led to the establishment of the commonwealth of England in 1649, following the execution of Charles I. The puritan government, under Cromwell's leadership , imposed strict moral codes and religious observance, which included the prohibition of theatrical performances and other leisure activities deemed immoral.
Literary Contributions :
The Puritan Age saw a rise in literature that reflected the period's religious fervor and political strife. Notable works include :
John Milton's " Paradise lost " : This epic poem, published in 1667, is a cornerstone of English literature. It explores themes of free will, obedience, and the fall of man, reflecting the Puritan belief in the complexities of human nature and divine justice.
John Bunyan's " Pilgrim's progress " : An allegorical tale of a Christian's journey towards salvation, this work became a seminal text in puritan literature. Embodying the era's spiritual
Concerns and moral values.
The Puritan Age's literary output often grappled with themes of morality, divine providence, and personal redemption, mirroring the tumultuous and often oppressive nature of the period.
The Restoration Age ( 1660-1700 ) :
Historical Context :
The Restoration Age began in 1660 with return of Charles II to the throne, making the end of Puritan rule and the reestablishment of the monarchy. This era characterized by political stability and cultural revival, a return to pre- civil war social norms and the re- opening of theatres that had been closed under Puritan rule.
Cultural and Political Changes :
The Restoration brought about significant changes in English society. The monarchy's return signalled a shift towards more liberal attitudes and a renewed focus on the arts and entertainment. Charles II , known for his patronage of the arts and sciences, fostered an environment were literature and theatre thrived.
Literary Contributions :
The Restoration Age is known for its distinct literary styles and genres , particularly the development of Restoration comedy. Key literary figures of this period include :
John Dryden : A prominent and playwright, Dryden's works such as " Absalom and Achitophel " , exemplify the political satire and allegory popular during this time.
William Congreve : Renowned for his comedies of manners, Congreve's plays, including " The way of the world" reflect the wit and social satire characteristic of Restoration comedy.
Aphra Behn : One of the first English women to earn a living as a writer, Behn's works, such as a " Oroonoko " offer insights into the era's attitudes towards gender and colonialism.
Restoration literature often focused on themes of social behavior, individualism, and political satire, making a shift from the introspective and religious focus of The Puritan Age.
Comparison of the Puritan and Restoration Ages :
Religious vs. Secular themes :
While Puritan literature emphasized religious and moral concerns. Restoration literature often celebrated worldly pleasures and entertainment.
Plain style vs. Wit and satire :
Puritan writers favored a simple and direct style, while Restoration writers often employed wit, satire and comedy.
Allegory vs. Realism :
Puritan literature frequently employed allegorical techniques, while Restoration literature often leaned toward realism.
Social and political commentary:
Both Puritan and Restoration literature engaged in social and political commentary, but their perspectives and approach differed significantly.
Conclusion :
The Puritan Ageand The Restoration Age represent two contrasting phases in English history. The Puritan Age was defined by religious rigor and political conflict, influencing literature with its themes of morality and divine justice. In contrast, The Restoration Age, marked by the return of the monarchy, embraced a more liberal cultural climate that fostered the growth of comedy, satire and diverse literary forms. Together , this periods showcase the dynamic evolution of English society and its literary heritage during a time of significant change.
REFERENCES :
Dilip Barad. " Puritan and Restoration Age : English Literature". Teacher's Blog .14 February 2021
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